Institute Of Maltese Journalists ‘Disgusted’ At Government’s Rejection Of Anti-SLAPP Law Amendments
The Institute of Maltese Journalists (IĠM) condemned the government’s decision, opposing amendments to strengthen the anti-SLAPP law presented by the Opposition Party.
“The IĠM is disgusted by the government’s stance today,” the institute wrote yesterday evening on social media.
It went on to say that Justice Minister Jonathan Attard and other government representatives “showed no interest in discussing stronger protections for journalists. Instead, they were more focused on increasing civil libel damages.”
The amendments sought to make the legislation stronger and more protective of journalists by extending the SLAPP safeguards to domestic cases and increasing penalties a court can impose on people or companies who initiate these vexatious lawsuits.
Strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) are vexatious lawsuits that intend to intimidate and silence journalists, bloggers, media outlets and other publications. SLAPPs ate baseless but due to the resource discrepancy between those initiating the lawsuits and the public watchdogs at the receiving end, they can work at silencing critics.
Daphne Caruana Galizia was subject to multiple SLAPPs she was assassinated in 2017. Her death triggered the an anti-SLAPP EU directive called Daphne’s Law which was criticised by several MEPs for being watered down, also excluding domestic cases from its remit.
The government’s proposal tonight was to commit to further consultation—a commitment it has been making since October 2023, when it announced it would publish a White Paper on the reforms proposed by the Expert Committee set up by the government itself.
“Unfortunately, even in tonight’s commitment, the government failed to indicate when the White Paper will be published. This hesitation is unacceptable, and the government must move beyond empty words and take real action,” the IĠM continued.
Momentum also released a statement standing with the IĠM’s condemnation.
“By refusing to extend protections to domestic cases and to increase penalties for vexatious lawsuits, the government undermines press freedom and democracy,” Malta’s new third party wrote.
“The amendments sought to close loopholes, ensuring anti-SLAPP protections apply in Malta, not just transnationally. These changes, supported by the IĠM, would have strengthened transparency, accountability, and journalist protections. Instead, Robert Abela’s government prioritised increasing libel damages over safeguarding free expression. Maltese journalists are not afforded by government the real safety net they deserve,” Momentum committee member Matthew Agius said.
The party concluded by urging the government to stop delaying and implement real anti-SLAPP protections. Daphne’s Law must truly protect journalists, ensuring they can report freely without fear of legal intimidation.
“We remain committed to pushing for stronger legislation that truly upholds democratic values.”
What are your thoughts on the government’s stance?
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